Group F of the Women's World Cup is one of the most intriguing and diverse groups in the tournament.
This group promises a thrilling mix of top talent and steely determination, featuring powerhouses Brazil and France alongside the spirited CONCACAF teams of Jamaica and debutants Panama.
Women's World Cup Group F
France
The European outfit are currently 5th in the FIFA Rankings and will undoubtedly be the team to beat in Group F. They present a formidable challenge for Brazil in Match Day Two which will likely decide who tops the group.
Packed with technical brilliance and tactical acumen, they have become a force to be reckoned with on the international stage and are unbeaten in 2023 at the time of writing.
Spearheaded by all-time top scorer Eugénie Le Sommer and supported by Chelsea’s treble-winning right back Ève Périsset, their attacking prowess combined with a solid defense makes them a serious contender for the whole tournament. With their sights set on claiming the ultimate prize, Les Bleues will be aiming to secure their place at the top of the group.
Brazil
Brazil are a perennial force in women's football and alongside Herve Renaud’s France will be favourites to advance to the Last 16. Known for their flair, skill, and attacking spark, the Brazilian team boasts a rich footballing heritage.
With stalwarts such as Marta, the legendary forward and six-time FIFA World Player of the Year, alongside fellow NWSL stars Debinha and Kerolin – the South Americans will bring their unique samba style to the tournament.
With a blend of experienced veterans and young talents, Pia Sundhage’s side will be looking to assert their dominance and make a deep run in the tournament.
Jamaica
While Brazil and France are considered favourites in Group F, the underdogs from Jamaica and Panama are poised to make their mark on the world stage. Jamaica, returning for their second consecutive Women's World Cup, will bring a refreshing and vibrant energy to the tournament. The Reggae Girlz have shown remarkable progress in recent years and are currently at their highest ever FIFA Ranking (43rd). They earned their spot by surprising Mexico on home soil as Manchester City’s Khadija Shaw scored the only goal in a win that set them on course for qualification. Jamaica's unwavering team spirit and organized style under Lorne Donaldson will make them a tough opponent.
Panama
Panama are making their Women's World Cup debut after a nail-biting 1-0 win over Paraguay in the intercontinental playoffs. The Central Americans will be eager to prove themselves against some of the world's best. Undoubtedly the Panamanian team will rely on their resolute defence and counterattacking prowess to make an impact. Led by their inspirational captain, Natalia Mills, Panama will aim to leave a lasting impression on the tournament and create history for women's football in their country. They also have a host of exciting young talent such as Riley Tanner – nicknamed “Frozen” because of her blonde hair – and the athletic Wendy Natis who made the 2022 Copa Libertadores semifinals with América de Cali.
Conclusion
Each team possesses unique strengths and characteristics that will shape the narrative of the group stage battles. From Brazil's attacking flair to Panama's resilience, we will see a diverse range of playing styles and strategies in the six games.
It is Match Day Two in Group F which promises to throw up tightly contested affairs, with Brazil and France surely fighting tooth and nail for the top two spots that will secure their progression to the knockout stage. The Europeans have come out on top in the last four meetings although they needed extra time to win in the last World Cup meeting in 2019.
Moving from Brisbane to Perth and the underdogs contest between Jamaica and Panama, will provide the best opportunity for both nations to record a first win on the global stage. The Reggae Girlz won the last match up between these two in a 2019 friendly but expect a tense contest.
Fixtures
- 23 July – France vs Jamaica – Sydney Football Stadium, Sydney
- 24 July – Brazil vs Panama – Hindmarsh Stadium, Adelaide
- 29 July – France vs Brazil – Lang Park, Brisbane
- 29 July – Panama vs Jamaica – Perth Rectangular Stadium, Perth
- 2 August – Panama vs France – Sydney Football Stadium, Sydney
- 2 August – Jamaica vs Brazil – Melbourne Rectangular Stadium, Melbourne